Chondroitin sulfate

Cartilage is the connective tissue that cushions the ends of bones within the joints. Chondroitin is a structural component of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the joints. It is produced naturally in the body. It is also available as a dietary supplement. Researchers have studied the effects of chondroitin individually and in combination with glucosamine, on osteoarthritis, a common type of arthritis that destroys the cartilage in the joints. In osteoarthritis, the surface layer of cartilage between the bones of a joint wears down. This allows the bones to rub together, which can cause pain and swelling and make it difficult to move the joint. The knees, hips, spine, and hands are the parts of the body most likely to be affected by osteoarthritis.